The Scottish Fishermen’s Federation (SFF) has welcomed the news that Mike Park, chief executive the Scottish Whitefish Producers Association, has received the WWF Award for Conservation Merit 2011.
The award was made in recognition of his leadership and efforts in improving conservation measures in the Scottish whitefish fisheries and his work in encouraging sustainable fishing practices in Scotland and beyond.
SFF Chief Executive Bertie Armstrong said: “Mike is to be congratulated on being selected for this recognition. The NGOs play a large part in shaping public opinion, and it is a fact of today that the best development of fisheries management will result from collaborative work between the industry, fisheries managers and the NGOs.”
WWF said that the award recognised significant contributions to grass roots conservation work as well as conservation achievement over a long period of time.
WWF Scotland Director, Dr Richard Dixon, said: "We are delighted that Mike's work and leadership in the drive for sustainable white fish fisheries are being rewarded by this WWF conservation merit award. His action is very much part of the innovative work being done in Scotland to ensure that fishing continues to play its crucial role in our coastal communities through greater protection for the marine environment."
